The final touches of Pulitzer Amsterdam’s extensive restoration have been put into place, and the iconic 45-year old hotel celebrated its grand opening recently with the completion of a quintessentially Dutch redesign across its labyrinth of 25 Golden Age canal houses.
The re-opening of Pulitzer Amsterdam’s Prinsengracht canal side of the hotel sees the unveiling of areas including the main entrance and lobby, the inner gardens, a two-storey gym, as well as a further 145 guestrooms and suites.
An impressive new entrance, the first new building since the canals received UNESCO status, now welcomes guests in style, guiding them into the eccentric yet luxurious lobby, furnished with vintage Persian rugs, antique furniture and a collection of historic and contemporary artwork.
The jewel in the crown is the inner gardens – occupying an unexpectedly large and serene hideaway nestled at the centre of the hotel. Creative Director, Jacu Strauss, has created a casual park-like feel within the space, a flexible area for guests and visitors to relax, work or socialise amongst seasonal plants and playful sculptures. Spanning areas of the lobby and the garden is Pause at Pulitzer, the hotel’s inviting café which serves drinks and light dishes throughout the day.
A total of 225 guestrooms and suites balance Amsterdam’s rich past and contemporary present in an eclectic mix of finishes, designs and elements which complement each room’s individual charm. Each room provides free wifi, a vintage telephone, Le Labo amenities, a custom-made minibar with cocktail mixing facilities and a bike repair set to complete the experience of the Dutch capital.
Four exceptional Collector’s Suites are inspired by the narrative of elaborate characters who may have lived in the buildings throughout the years; from a compulsive art devotee to an eccentric book lover; a music composer and a grand antique collector.
Quirky features include a dramatic floor-to-ceiling archway of books, a wall of trumpets, and a large painting depicting a modern scenario of The Last Supper. Each has a private entrance and stunning views of the canals. Meanwhile, the beautifully romantic Pulitzer’s Suite, with its freestanding grand bath tub, super king size bed and views over the gardens, is ideal for those staying with a loved one.
Formerly a senior designer at Tom Dixon’s Design Research Studio, Strauss has worked with a highly skilled team to painstakingly deconstruct the heritage of the canal houses and bring new light to their best kept secrets. From trade merchants to flamboyant Dutch aristocrats, past inhabitants of the canal houses have inspired the rich character of the hotel to invite guests to explore and discover. Eclectic yet elegant, the understated new look blends original and historic features with luxurious modern-day elements.
Pulitzer Amsterdam’s restaurant, Jansz., demonstrates the hotel’s deep passion for elegant culinary craftsmanship. Executive chef Cassidy Hallman has used an old-fashioned, quality-loving approach to create a menu of beautifully crafted modern classics that respect the simplicity of quality produce and ingredients. Next door, Pulitzer’s Bar is a classic and chic hotel bar with sumptuous furnishings and a rich and intimate atmosphere. The cocktail menu offers drinks that are classic in element and style, but modern in execution.
Alexander van Gastel, General Manager of Pulitzer Amsterdam, commented: “We are overwhelmed by the positive feedback we have received so far from guests and locals on the new-look Pulitzer Amsterdam. Our Grand Opening marks the next chapter and a very special moment in the hotel’s history. We are excited to reveal our complete offering and once again fully re-open for business. I am so proud of the dedication from all involved to bring this together, delivering our vision above and beyond.”
Pulitzer Amsterdam is located in one of the chicest neighbourhoods of the Dutch capital’s city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within easy reach is the Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk Museum, the Van Gogh Museum and The Anne Frank House. The fashionable Nine Streets, the quaint shops of Jordaan, the flower market and the Royal Palace are also a short distance away.
